Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly impact your typing experience. Among the popular options, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Huano Sakura stand out as two excellent linear switches, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Milky Red Pro is celebrated for its buttery smooth keystrokes and a satisfying low-pitched "thock" sound, making it an ideal choice for those who value both auditory feedback and a budget-friendly option for everyday use. In contrast, the Huano Sakura switches provide a feather-light touch and medium acoustics, which can greatly enhance comfort during extended typing sessions, suiting those who prioritize ease and efficiency over specific sound profiles. Both switches offer distinct advantages, whether you prefer the deeper sound and smoothness of the Milky Red Pro or the lighter sensitivity of the Sakura. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Huano Sakura switches, distinct differences can be noted between their top housings. The Milky Red Pro employs a nylon top housing that is celebrated for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Being a relatively softer plastic, nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Huano Sakura utilizes POK, or polyketone, for its top housing. Although POK offers some competitive advantages, such as a higher resistance to wear and shock, it differs in its sound characteristics. POK is lauded for providing a smooth action but is likely to produce a sharper, more clacky sound compared to the subdued tones of nylon. Consequently, while both materials contribute to the overall typing experience, their differing acoustic properties imply that users might prefer one over the other based on their sound preferences.
The bottom housings of both switches, however, are composed of the same nylon material, which creates an interesting parallel between the two. Since nylon is recognized for its sound-absorbing qualities, the bottom housing in both the Milky Red Pro and Sakura enhances the punchy, rounded feel typical of nylon switches. Due to the shared material, users can expect a similar bottom-out sound profile when typing on both switches. In turn, this allows the overall performance to remain consistent regarding the sound produced when keys are pressed down, even though the top housings differ. This means that both switches will exhibit a dulled and fuller auditory feedback during key presses, making them appealing to users who appreciate that characteristic.
Overall, the combined effects of the differing top and bottom housing materials create distinct typing experiences between the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Huano Sakura. While each switch's top housing contributes uniquely to its sound profile and feel—nylon offering a rounded tone compared to the POK's sharper clack—the shared nylon bottom housing bridges a gap to maintain a certain level of consistency in feel and bottom-out sound. This division allows users to appreciate the individual characteristics of the top housing while benefiting from the classic, soft, and sound-absorbing properties of nylon in both switches’ lower halves. Thus, while the overall performance may differ, users can find familiarity in the aural sensation and feedback when typing on either switch.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Milky Red Pro requires an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. In contrast, the Sakura switch features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a softer touch. Consequently, those seeking a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions would gravitate towards the Huano Sakura, while users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience might favor the Gateron Milky Red Pro. Ultimately, the Sakura switch's overall lighter forces provide a less strenuous experience for long-term use compared to the heavier pressures associated with the Milky Red Pro.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Gateron Milky Red Pro features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it one of the more traditional options that offers a deeper feel with every keypress. In contrast, the Huano Sakura has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, which caters to users who favor a snappier response, making it potentially more appealing for gamers looking for quick actuation. As such, the Milky Red Pro, with its longer distance, may provide a more substantial pressing experience, while the Sakura could be perceived as more immediate and less pronounced. If you lean toward a more responsive feel, the Sakura offers that advantage with its shorter travel distance, but for those who appreciate a deeper keypress, the Gateron switch would be preferable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
The Huano Sakura has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura for $3.29.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches are celebrated for their distinctive low-pitched and thocky acoustics, delivering a richer and deeper sound profile that many users find satisfying. Each keystroke produces a soft "thud" that can enhance the typing experience, making it not only enjoyable but feel substantial as well. The bass-heavy notes contribute to a mellow ambiance while typing, creating a pleasant auditory environment. In contrast, the Huano Sakura switches are known for their medium acoustics, which implies a more balanced sound. While the specific acoustic qualities of the Sakura switches are not detailed, they may provide a less pronounced sound than the Gateron switches, leading to a quieter typing experience overall. It's important to consider that the sound of any switch can be further influenced by factors like the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience characterized by a buttery sensation, allowing for fluid and seamless keystrokes. This smoothness makes typing more enjoyable, especially during lengthy sessions, as your fingers glide effortlessly over the keys. The feel is designed to minimize finger fatigue, making it ideal for both gaming and coding. Unfortunately, specific details regarding the tactile response or overall feel of the Huano Sakura switches are not available, leaving a gap in comparison regarding how they might match up or differ from the Milky Red Pro.
Overall, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and Huano Sakura switches cater to different preferences, especially in sound and feel. The Milky Red Pro offers a smooth, thocky experience that appeals to those who enjoy deeper, satisfying acoustics, while the Sakura switches provide a feather-light touch with medium sound characteristics, which may suit users looking for a quieter experience. While the Milky Red Pro excels in providing buttery keystrokes, the lack of detailed feedback about the Sakura’s tactile and auditory qualities leaves it a bit of an enigma. Ultimately, your preference may lean towards the Milky Red Pro for sound and feel, but if you appreciate lighter switch characteristics, the Sakura might also be enticing.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Huano Sakura linear switch really hinges on your personal preferences for feel and sound, as well as how you intend to use your keyboard. If you prioritize a buttery smooth typing experience with a mellow, low-pitched "thock" sound, the Milky Red Pro is your go-to option. It strikes a pleasing balance with its medium-light bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a solid choice for both casual typing and gaming sessions where smoothness can enhance your performance. However, if you’re seeking an ultra-light touch for extended periods of typing, the Sakura's lighter bottom out force of 45 grams may be more suitable, providing a feather-light experience that can help reduce finger fatigue. While the Sakura switches may not have the same rich acoustic qualities as the Milky Red Pro, their medium acoustics offer a pleasant alternative for those who do a lot of typing. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches depends on whether you value a more substantial sound and feel, or if you prefer a lightweight option that favors comfort during lengthy typing tasks.
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